ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN: PHYSICAL ABUSE IN FOSTER CARE SYSTEMS IN PLATEAU STATE

ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN: PHYSICAL ABUSE IN FOSTER CARE SYSTEMS IN PLATEAU STATE

1.1 Background of the Study

In Nigeria, orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs) are often placed in foster care arrangements—either formal (government-supervised) or informal (kinship care). In Plateau State, these children frequently face significant risks of physical abuse, neglect, and exploitation within such settings (UNICEF, 2019). Cultural obligations to "take in" orphaned children do not always equate to genuine caregiving, and in many cases, OVCs are treated as subordinate household laborers rather than full family members (Save the Children, 2020).

The socio-political instability in Plateau State has contributed to a growing number of OVCs, straining already weak welfare systems. Without proper monitoring, foster environments can become abusive, with foster parents administering harsh discipline or denying children access to basic needs under the guise of correction or moral upbringing (Okafor & Chukwu, 2018). These children are particularly vulnerable due to their dependency and lack of parental advocates.

Understanding the prevalence and drivers of physical abuse in foster care is essential to reforming child welfare systems, strengthening legal safeguards, and ensuring that care arrangements promote rather than endanger child well-being.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite national policies promoting child protection, reports of abuse among fostered OVCs in Plateau State are increasing. Existing mechanisms for monitoring foster homes are weak or non-existent, making it difficult to detect and prevent abuse. This study seeks to expose the realities faced by OVCs in foster care and evaluate gaps in the current child protection framework.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To assess the prevalence of physical abuse among orphans and vulnerable children in foster care in Plateau State.

To identify common factors contributing to such abuse (e.g., economic hardship, cultural beliefs, poor monitoring).

To recommend practical interventions for improving foster care standards and reducing child maltreatment.

 

1.4 Research Questions

What forms of physical abuse are commonly experienced by OVCs in foster care?

What are the underlying causes of such abuse in Plateau State?

How effective are current government and community-based monitoring systems in detecting and preventing abuse?

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

Policy Makers & Welfare Agencies: Will benefit from findings to restructure child welfare monitoring systems.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Can tailor support programs to foster families and vulnerable children.

Community Stakeholders: Will be sensitized on the ethical and legal responsibilities of fostering.

 

1.6 Scope and Limitations

Scope: Focuses on OVCs placed in foster care in selected LGAs across Plateau State.

Limitations:

Difficulty in accessing children currently experiencing abuse due to fear or legal barriers.

Bias from foster caregivers during interviews or surveys.

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs): Children who have lost one or both parents or are in precarious living conditions.

Foster Care: A system where a child is raised by individuals who are not their biological parents, either formally or informally.

Physical Abuse: Use of physical force that harms the child (e.g., beating, slapping, burning).

Monitoring Mechanisms: Tools and practices used to supervise foster care environments.